David William Johnston, 40, of 220 Mountain Lee Rd., was also handed a one-month concurrent sentence for attempting to administer a noxious substance – old anti-depressant pills – to the boyfriend of his ex girlfriend.

“Sentencings in situations like this is a serious matter,” provincial court Judge Michelle Christianson said, prior to delivering her verdict in Truro on Friday.

While acknowledging that Johnston, a magician who performs under the stage name Mister J, has already undergone a “public shaming”, Christianson said that straight jail time, as opposed to house arrest as was recommended by his defence lawyer, Al Bégin, was warranted because of the seriousness of the case.

Crown prosecutor Paul Drysdale had recommended a sentence of between 12-month’s and 15-month’s jail time.

“The crime that you committed is a serious crime,” she said. “It is extremely fortunate that his injuries were not more severe,” she added, regarding the victim, Jason Nichols, who was treated for lacerations to his head after being flung into the air and against another vehicle when struck by Johnston’s car in the parking lot of the Robie Street Sobeys in April 2013.

Just prior to his sentencing, Johnston apologized to Nichols and his wife, Marla, who were present in the courtroom.

“I’m very sorry for what I did,” he said, adding that the couple would not have to be fearful or worry about any future contact from him.